What is idolatry? Idolatry is trusting in created things rather than the Creator for our hope and happiness, significance and security. (New City Catechism) Unclear the moment when the tree ceases to be an ornament, a source of food, a sign of flourishing, Continue reading “Catechism 17”
Category Archives: Theology
Catechism 16
What is sin? Sin is rejecting God in the world he created, rebelling against him by living without reference to him, not being or doing what he requires in his law – resulting in our death and the disintegration of all creation. (New City Catechism) The choice of the moment: a hand to reach outContinue reading “Catechism 16”
Catechism 14
Did God create us unable to keep his law? No, but because of the disobedience of our first parents, Adam and Eve, all of creation is fallen; we are all born in sin and guilt, corrupt in our nature and unable to keep God’s law. (New City Catechism) The spirit is willing but theContinue reading “Catechism 14”
Catechism 13
Can anyone keep the law of God perfectly? Since the fall, no mere human has been able to keep the law of God perfectly, but consistently breaks it in thought, word, and deed. (New City Catechism) All this being said – the neighbour languishes where thieves and Levites have left him. The SamaritanContinue reading “Catechism 13”
Catechism 12
What does God require in the ninth and tenth commandments? Ninth, that we do not lie or deceive, but speak the truth in love. Tenth, that we are content, not envying anyone or resenting what God has given them or us. (New City Catechism) The one beside you in the field, Continue reading “Catechism 12”
Catechism 11
What does God require in the sixth, seventh and eighth commandments? Sixth, that we do not hurt, or hate, or be hostile to our neighbour, but be patient and peaceful, pursuing even our enemies with love. Seventh, that we abstain from sexual immorality and live purely and faithfully, whether in marriage or in single life,Continue reading “Catechism 11”
Catechism 10
What does God require in the fourth and fifth commandments? Fourth, that on the Sabbath day we spend time in public and private worship of God, rest from routine employment, serve the Lord and others, and so anticipate the eternal Sabbath. Fifth, that we love andContinue reading “Catechism 10”
Catechism 9
What does God require in the first, second and third commandments? First, that we know and trust God as the only true and living God. Second, that we avoid all idolatry and do not worship God improperly. Third, that we treat God’s name with fear and reverence, honoring also his Word and works. (New CityContinue reading “Catechism 9”
Catechism 8
(Detail from “Moses” by Rembrandt van Rijn) What is the law of God stated in the Ten Commandments? You shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below – you shallContinue reading “Catechism 8”
Catechism 7
What does the law of God require? Personal, perfect, and perpetual obedience; that we love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength; and love our neighbour as ourselves. What God forbids should never be done and what God commands should always be done. (New City Catechism) And what does He require of you,Continue reading “Catechism 7”
The Consolations of Writing 